Music streaming platforms like Deezer and Spotify have dominated the industry since the mid-2000s, while Apple Music entered the market in 2015. With around 93 million subscribers, Apple Music competes well, offering a vast music library, curated playlists, and exclusive content. Users can enjoy a free trial, various subscription plans, and access on multiple devices. The service features over 100 million songs, lossless audio formats, and a redesigned user interface for improved navigation.
In recent years, music streaming platforms such as Deezer and Spotify have firmly established their presence in the industry since their inception in the mid-2000s. In contrast, Apple made its debut in the streaming arena much later, launching Apple Music in 2015.
Prior to this, music enthusiasts could only purchase songs and albums through iTunes, as streaming was not an option. Today, Apple Music boasts approximately 93 million paying subscribers. While this number is impressive, it still falls short of Spotify, the market leader. Nonetheless, Apple Music remains a strong competitor, primarily due to its extensive music library, expertly curated playlists, and exclusive radio stations. To find out more about its offerings, keep reading.
Quick Overview of Apple Music
Pricing and Free Trial Options
New users can experience Apple Music for free for three months. After the trial, the monthly subscription fee is set at €10.99 for individuals.
Students benefit from a discounted rate of €5.99 per month, while families can opt for a family plan at €16.99 per month, allowing up to six members to have their own accounts. Furthermore, family members can share content and iTunes purchases.
Previously, Apple Music offered a plan called Apple Music Voice, which provided access to the entire music catalog for €4.99 per month, but only through Siri. Playback control was also facilitated via voice commands. Users have the flexibility to cancel their Apple Music subscription on a monthly basis.
Compatible Devices
Apple Music can be accessed via iTunes on both Mac and Windows computers, as well as on iOS devices running iOS 10 or later, the Apple Watch, and HomePod. Additionally, users can enjoy the service on Android smartphones and tablets, as Apple Music was first introduced to Android in late 2015. Streaming is also possible on various entertainment devices using the AirPlay wireless protocol.
This technology allows music playback on compatible smart TVs, AV receivers, and speakers. Samsung Smart TVs even feature a dedicated Apple Music app available in their Smart TV App Store. Console gamers can also access Apple Music with dedicated apps available for both PS5 and Xbox Series.
Moreover, AirPort network adapters can transform analog devices, such as stereo systems, into AirPlay receivers. Apple Music also supports Sonos multi-room speakers, and users can control it with Amazon Alexa. Apple TV 4 and Apple TV (4K) come equipped with their own Apple Music app, enabling connection to stereo systems and AV receivers. In addition, Apple Music can be streamed in vehicles equipped with CarPlay or Android Auto. The service is also available on Apple’s smartwatch, allowing for remote control and offline music playback with an LTE model.
Music, Audiobooks, and Podcasts
Apple Music currently features over 100 million songs for streaming. During our review, we found nearly all albums and songs we searched for available in the extensive library, with no significant gaps. The variety of genres offered is on par with other music streaming services. However, some independent artists may not have their music on Apple Music, but the overall selection is commendable.
In addition to music, audiobooks are available, though they can be somewhat challenging to locate. For those who enjoy spoken content, the ‘For You’ section usually provides insightful recommendations, although searching for specific titles often yields better results. Until 2021, audiobooks were part of the offering but have since been removed. Users can now turn to Apple Books for that content.
Regarding podcasts, Apple Music falls short compared to competitors like Spotify. While popular podcasts, such as Baywatch Berlin, can be accessed through the separate Apple Podcasts app, Android users may find limited options. However, the radio section features a variety of music podcasts and shows, some hosted by renowned artists.
Audio Quality
Apple Music streams at 256 kilobits per second, matching the quality of iTunes downloads. The service utilizes the AAC codec, which is also consistent with iTunes. In terms of premium offerings, Apple Music’s streaming quality trails behind Spotify and other platforms like Napster, which offer up to 320 kilobits per second on mobile and desktop.
Enhancing Your Listening Experience
In practical terms, the audio quality difference may be minimal, potentially influenced by the varying audio codecs. Both Apple Music and Spotify employ the AAC format, and our tests did not reveal any significant discrepancies. Audiophiles may notice differences at lossy audio levels.
To cater to higher quality demands, Apple Music introduced Lossless Audio formats in June 2021 at no additional cost. These formats range from CD quality with 16-bit at 44.1 kHz to 24-bit at 48 kHz. With Hi-Resolution Lossless, listeners can enjoy music up to 24-bit at 192 kHz using Apple’s proprietary codec, Apple Lossless Audio Codec (ALAC).
Additionally, Apple Music offers songs, albums, and playlists with 3D audio support through Dolby Atmos, a feature that was previously exclusive to certain services like Tidal.
User Experience and Features
Following initial critiques, Apple Music underwent a redesign for both desktop and mobile platforms, focusing on enhancing user navigation and clarity. The iOS and Android apps, as well as Apple Music in iTunes, share a cohesive design language. On Apple devices, the service is integrated into the Music app, organized into sections like ‘Library’, ‘For You’, ‘Discover’, and ‘Radio’.
The library contains all iTunes tracks alongside those stored via Apple Music, with the ability to sync and store local music from your computer. By activating the iCloud Music Library, users can ensure their music is accessible across all connected iOS devices, PCs, and more. Not only Apple Music tracks are synced but the entire music library as well. If any tracks missing from the iTunes catalog are found, Apple will upload them to iCloud, allowing for a maximum of 100,000 songs.